By Shannon Gomes
Nestled in the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains at an elevation of about 6,237 feet, South Lake Tahoe, California, holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been visiting this region since I was a young girl, and I continue to visit with my own family on yearly basis both in the winter and summer. Boosting unparalleled natural beauty, this region experienced some major devastation in August 2021 with the Caldor Fire. The community’s resilience, along with extensive firefighting and recovery efforts, played a crucial role in overcoming this challenging period. While you can still witness the damage of the Caldor Fire on your drive up Hwy. 50, as you descend into the valley you are immediately captivated by the lake’s striking blue waters are framed by towering pine trees and rugged mountains.
The city of South Lake Tahoe is located on the southern shore of the lake, straddling the border between California and Nevada. Known for its stunning beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and lively entertainment scene, it is a popular year-round destination for visitors from around the world. The city experiences a high-altitude alpine climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers – making for the perfect destination for winter sports and summer outdoor activities. Whatever time of year you visit (spring and fall are lovely too!), South Lake Tahoe beckons to be explored.
How long should you plan to visit to experience South Lake Tahoe?
A minimum of 3 days, but ideally 5-7 days to truly experience the region and all it has to offer.
Best time of year to visit?
Depending on which outdoor activities you enjoy most, I recommend visiting in either the Summer or Winter. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy hiking, wildflowers and photography, both the Spring and Fall is a lovely time to visit the region.
How to get there?
Driving is the best way to get to South Lake Tahoe, so a car is necessary. In the wintertime, it’s critical to drive up in a 4WD or AWD and bring chains, while in the summertime, I recommend having bike rack. An easy drive from the Bay Area or Sacramento area, driving Hwy. 50 from Placerville to the lake is very scenic. If flying, look to fly into either Reno or Sacramento airport, then rent a car to drive to South Lake Tahoe.
Don’t forget to pack! 🎒
- Summertime: Sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, hats, backpack, water bottle, swim suit, towels, lots of snacks and water, and a car rack for bikes.
- Wintertime: Chains for your car (and be sure you drive up in an AWD or 4WD), snow boats, snow gloves, hats, googles, snow/ski clothes, and extra snacks for the car.
Best Places to Stay 🛌
If you are going up with a group of friends or with family, I recommend renting a cabin to enjoy the comforts of home while enjoying “living like a local” in South Lake Tahoe. Most recently, we stayed in a lovely cabin in South Lake Tahoe through HomeExchange. There are a handful of local rental agencies such as Lake Tahoe Accommodations and Tahoe Exclusive Vacation Rentals, or see what Airbnb has to offer. However, if you prefer to stay in a hotel or resort, here are some great options:
For families:
- Heavenly Village Condos – located in the heart of Heavenly Village, these condos offer convenient access to shops, restaurants, and the Heavenly Gondola. Units are spacious and well-equipped, making them ideal for families and groups.
- Marriott’s Timber Lodge – located in Heavenly Village, this timeshare resort offers spacious villas with full kitchens and separate living areas. The property features a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a fitness center.
- Margaritaville Resort – formerly the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, this all-suite hotel is located at the base of Heavenly Mountain Resort and features spacious suites with separate living areas. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet and an indoor pool.
- Hotel Beckett – this contemporary hotel is conveniently located near the Heavenly Gondola and features stylish rooms with a rustic-chic vibe.
For couples:
- The Landing Resort & Spa – an upscale boutique hotel is located right on the lake and offers beautifully appointed rooms with fireplaces and private balconies.
- Edgewood Resort – a luxury escape along the shores of the lake featuring fine dining, a spa, and fantastic golf course. Perfect getaway to celebrate a special occasion.
- Black Bear Lodge – a charming boutique lodge offering cozy rooms and private cabins. The lodge features a rustic yet modern design, with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- The Coachman Hotel – a stylish boutique hotel offering modern, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. The hotel features an outdoor pool, hot tub, and a cozy lobby with a bar. Complimentary breakfast and s’mores by the fire pit add a nice touch.
Budget-friendly options:
- Basecamp South Lake Tahoe – this trendy, eco-friendly hotel offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Rooms are designed with a camp-like feel, and the hotel features a rooftop hot tub, outdoor fire pits, and a beer garden.
- Zephyr Cove Resort – offering charming lakeside cabins and an RV park, Zephyr Cove Resort is perfect for those who want to be close to nature. The resort features a private beach, marina, and various outdoor activities, including boating and horseback riding.
Summertime in South Lake Tahoe ☀️
Hiking 🥾
South Lake Tahoe is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails that showcase the area’s stunning natural beauty, from alpine lakes and lush forests to granite peaks and panoramic vistas. Top hikes in the area include:
- Fallen Leaf Lake – this trail offers beautiful views of Fallen Leaf Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is relatively flat, making it suitable for families and casual hikers. You can start the hike from the Fallen Leaf Lake Campground and follow the shoreline for as long as you’d like.
- Echo Lakes – the trail starts at the Echo Chalet and follows the shoreline of Lower and Upper Echo Lakes. It’s a relatively easy hike with beautiful lake views and options to extend the hike into the Desolation Wilderness.
- Angora Lakes – a short, enjoyable hike that offers stunning scenery and a variety of activities for hikers of all ages. Whether you’re looking to swim, picnic, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk in a beautiful alpine setting, the Angora Lakes hike is a perfect choice.
- Mt. Tallac – this challenging hike offers some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. The trailhead is located off Mount Tallac Road. As you ascend, you’ll pass through lush forests and meadows before reaching the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains
- Tahoe Rim Trail – this 165-mile trail offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Even if you can’t tackle the entire trail, day hikes from trailheads like Echo Lakes and Kingsbury Grade offer unforgettable scenery.
- Eagle Lake Trail – a relatively short but rewarding hike in Emerald Bay State Park. The trail leads to the beautiful Eagle Lake, surrounded by towering granite peaks.
- Van Sickle Bi-State Park Trail – starting in South Lake Tahoe and crossing into Nevada, this trail offers fantastic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Heavenly Village, making it easily accessible for visitors.
- Skyline Trail – accessed via the Heavenly Gondola, this trail offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley. It’s a great option if you’re already visiting Heavenly Mountain Resort and looking for a scenic hike.
Biking 🚲
- South Lake Tahoe is renowned for its extensive network of bike trails, offering cyclists a chance to explore the region’s breathtaking landscapes, from lakeside paths to challenging mountain trails. Some of the best trails include:
- Tahoe East Shore Trail – this paved trail runs along the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe from Incline Village to Sand Harbor. It offers stunning lake views, beach access, and picnic spots. It’s perfect for families and casual cyclists.
- Pope-Baldwin Bike Path – a flat, paved path running from Pope Beach to Baldwin Beach, passing through the Tallac Historic Site and offering beautiful views of Lake Tahoe. The trail is shaded and suitable for all skill levels.
- South Lake Tahoe Bike Path – this scenic bike path runs parallel to Highway 50 and Lake Tahoe Boulevard, offering easy access to several beaches, parks, and attractions in South Lake Tahoe. The trail is mostly flat, with some gentle hills.
Watersports 🚤
- Boating
- One of the best ways to explore hidden coves and take in the breathtaking scenery from the water is by renting a motorboat for 4-6 hours. Options range from pontoons to all sizes of classic powerboats. Make the day even more fun by renting a tube, wakeboard or water skis. If you have experience driving boats (basic knowledge is necessary) you can rent without a captain. However if you prefer to relax for the day, you can hire a captain for your boat. Best rental companies include Tahoe Sports, Action Watersports or Battle Born Boat Rentals. You can also rent boats directly through private owners through Boatsetter.com.
- Paddleboarding & Kayaking
- Glide across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from one of the many rental shops along the shoreline. Popular spots include El Dorado Beach and Sand Harbor (tip: arrive before 8am – parking gets crazy here!).
- Jet Skiing & Parasailing
- For an adrenaline-fueled experience on the lake, rent a jet ski for 1-2 hours. Or, if you’d like to experience the incredible beauty of the lake from the sky, go parasailing. For either experience, rent with either Action Watersports or Tahoe Sports
- Swimming & Sunbathing
- Relax on the sandy shores of Baldwin Beach, Pope Beach, or Nevada Beach. The refreshing/chilly waters (note: you quickly get used to it!) are perfect for a summer swim.
- Golf ⛳
- Love to golf? Bring your clubs and enjoy the following courses:
- Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course – home of the annual American Century Championship golf tournament every July
- Lake Tahoe Golf Course
- Bijou Municipal Golf Course
Top Kid-Friendly Activities in the Summertime 🎣
- Go fishing at the Tahoe Trout Farm (open May – October from 10am-5pm daily) or Sawmill Pond (open April – October) which is specifically for kids 14 and under. After you catch some fish, drop them off McDuff’s to be perfectly fried and then pick up later for an incredible meal!
- Go mini golfing at Magic Carpet Golf – open April – October.
- Go zip lining, summer tubing, hit the climbing wall or ride the Ridge Rider Coaster on top of the mountain at Heavenly Ski Resort during the summer months.
- Go bowling at Tahoe Bowl – open Wednesday – Sunday from 3:30pm-11pm.
- Visit Lake Baron in the Meyers community, about 10 miles southwest of South Lake Tahoe. It is part of the Tahoe Paradise Park, a local park that offers various outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to fish, picnic, hike, or simply relax in nature, Lake Baron provides a peaceful retreat in the South Lake Tahoe area.
Wintertime in South Lake Tahoe ❄️
- Downhill Skiing ⛷️South Lake Tahoe is a premier destination for downhill skiing, offering world-class ski resorts, stunning mountain views, and a variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels. Top ski resorts in the area include:
- Heavenly – straddling the California-Nevada border, Heavenly offers 4,800 acres with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs and panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada. This mountain is best for skiers and snowboarders looking for diverse terrain and lively après-ski options.
- Sierra at Tahoe – about a 12 mile drive from South Lake Tahoe, Sierra at Tahoe offers 2,000 acres with a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails. It’s great for families with excellent ski school programs and often has some of the best snow quality in the region.
- Kirkwood – about 35 miles south of South Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood offers 2,300 acres and is known for its challenging terrain and deep snow. This mountain is best for advanced to expert skiers and those seeking challenging terrain and backcountry access.
- Skiing Tips:
- Purchase in advance online for discounts, especially during peak times.
- All major resorts offer ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and abilities, as well as equipment rentals.
- Shuttle services are available from South Lake Tahoe to most nearby resorts.
- Check daily snow reports for current conditions and open trails.
- Sledding 🛷
- South Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland that offers a variety of sledding options for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to enjoy some snowy fun. Here’s some of the best sledding spots in the area:
- Adventure Mountain – the premier sledding and tubing destination in South Lake Tahoe. With 40 acres of groomed sledding runs and snow play areas, it’s perfect for families and groups.
- Heavenly Mountain Resort – offers fantastic tubing and sledding options at its Adventure Peak.
- Bijou Community Park – a versatile park with a small sledding hill, ideal for young children and families.
- Hansen’s Resort – a cozy spot offering a smaller, family-friendly sledding experience.
- South Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland that offers a variety of sledding options for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to enjoy some snowy fun. Here’s some of the best sledding spots in the area:
- Ice Skating ⛸️
- Tahoe Ice Area – this indoor, year-round ice rink offers a variety of ice activities and programs, making it a versatile option for skaters of all ages and skill levels.
- Heavenly Village Ice Rink – this outdoor ice rink is centrally located in the heart of Heavenly Village, making it easily accessible and a favorite spot for families and couples.
Arts & Entertainment 🎶
South Lake Tahoe offers a vibrant arts and entertainment scene that complements its natural beauty and outdoor activities. From live music and theater to art galleries and festivals, there’s always something to enjoy. Top options include:
- Harrah’s Lake Tahoe and Harveys Lake Tahoe – both casinos feature large venues hosting well-known artists and bands throughout the year. The Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys is a popular spot for summer concerts, offering an impressive lineup of performers against the backdrop of the lake and mountains.
- The Loft Theatre & Lounge – located in Heavenly Village, this venue offers a mix of live performances, including magic shows, comedy, and music, in an intimate setting.
- Valhalla Tahoe – located at the Tallac Historic Site, Valhalla Tahoe hosts a summer arts and music festival featuring theatrical productions, live music, and art exhibits in a historic boathouse theater.
- Tahoe Film Fest – an annual event celebrating independent films, documentaries, and environmental films. Screenings take place at various venues around South Lake Tahoe.
Best Local Tours 🗺️
South Lake Tahoe offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests, from scenic cruises and adventure tours to historical and cultural excursions. Here are some of the best local tours to consider during your visit:
- Lake Tahoe Cruises
- Tahoe Queen Paddlewheeler – this iconic paddlewheeler offers daily sightseeing cruises on Lake Tahoe, including sunset dinner cruises. Enjoy stunning views of the lake, Emerald Bay, and the surrounding mountains.
- M.S. Dixie II – another popular paddlewheeler, the M.S. Dixie II offers daytime scenic cruises and dinner cruises with live entertainment. The sunset cruise is particularly enchanting, providing breathtaking views of the lake as the sun sets.
- Tahoe Cruises – tours to Emerald Bay with both historical and natural history provided live by Coast Guard certified captains.
- Tahoe Photographic Tours
- Led by professional photographers, these tours take you to some of the most picturesque spots around Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just looking to capture beautiful vacation photos, this tour provides expert guidance and stunning locations.
- Lake Tahoe Adventures
- Snowmobile Tours: During the winter months, explore the backcountry on a guided snowmobile tour. Experience the thrill of riding through snowy meadows and forests, with stops at scenic viewpoints.
- ATV and RZR Tours: In the summer, take an off-road adventure on an ATV or RZR. These guided tours take you through rugged terrain, offering spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and Lake Tahoe.
- Tahoe Tastings
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour on the “Golden Rose,” a vintage wooden boat. This unique tour combines scenic cruising with wine tasting, featuring wines from local Northern California wineries.
- Tallac Historic Site
- Explore the historic estates of Baldwin, Pope, and Valhalla, which date back to the early 20th century. Guided tours offer insights into the history and architecture of these beautifully preserved sites.
- Hellman-Ehrman Mansion Tour in Sugar Pine Point State Park
- Visit this historic mansion, also known as Pine Lodge, built in the early 1900s. The guided tour provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the early 20th-century elite who summered at Lake Tahoe.
- Tahoe Adventure Company
- Kayak and SUP Tours: Explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe on a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour. Options include sunset paddles, full moon tours, and family-friendly excursions.
- Hiking and Biking Tours: Discover the natural beauty of Tahoe’s trails with guided hiking and mountain biking tours. Experienced guides share their knowledge of the area’s flora, fauna, and geology.
- Bleu Wave Tahoe
- Private Yacht Charters:For a more personalized experience, charter a private yacht and enjoy a customized tour of Lake Tahoe. Options include sightseeing, sunset cruises, and special events.
- Best Spas 🧖♀️
- After all of those outdoor adventures, it’s time to treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment! Here are a list of top places to blissfully relax:
- The Landing Resort & Spa
- This boutique resort’s spa offers personalized treatments using organic products. Enjoy a variety of massages, facials, and body treatments.
- BioSpirit Day Spa
- BioSpirit offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, body wraps, and scrubs. The spa is known for its skilled therapists and relaxing atmosphere.
- Elevate Wellness Center
- This wellness center focuses on holistic health and offers a variety of services, including massage therapy, acupuncture, and yoga. Their integrative approach ensures a comprehensive wellness experience.
- Balance Holistic Health Spa
- This holistic health spa offers a range of services, including massages, facials, and acupuncture. Their focus on wellness and healing ensures a rejuvenating experience.
Let’s Talk Food! 🍝
Overall the food scene in South Lake Tahoe is very casual – think pizza, burgers, beer and pub food. While there are a couple great spots to dine while enjoying a beautiful view of the lake such as Riva Grill and Edgewood, in my opinion some of the best food can be found at the following more casual locations. My favorite spots for lunch or dinner include:
- My Thai – delicious Thai food in a beautiful setting. No reservations so arrive early to put your name on the list, or you can pick up food and enjoy it back at your place (but I recommend eating there!).
- Primos – the go-to spot for good Italian food.
- McDuff’s Pub – classic pub fare and great drinks with both indoor and outdoor patio dining. Special perk: You can drop off fish that you’ve caught at McDuff’s and come back a few hours later to pick up your perfectly fried or grilled fish to enjoy back at your place!
- Lake Tahoe Pizza Company – delicious pizza.
- Base Camp Pizza – great pizza and salad spot located in Heavenly Village.
- Burger Lounge – best spot for burgers on the South Shore!
- Artemis Lakefront Cafe – Greek and Mediterranean cuisine located in the Ski Run Marina – just steps away from the beach and offers beautiful views from their patio and front dining room.
Best Breakfast Spots 🥞
Best Coffee Shop ☕
- Cuppa Tahoe – an award-winning coffee shop, bookstore and cafe located in the crossing at Tahoe Valley at the “Y” in South Lake Tahoe. Featuring a seasonally rotating menu of sweet and savory foods and offering lots of comfortable spots to either curl up with a book, catch up on some work or chat with a friend over a delicious coffee drink, this is the spot to go.
Best Spots for Beer 🍻
South Lake Tahoe offers tons of pubs and bars to enjoy a refreshing beer, but the two best spots that both have food trucks on site and offer a fun vibe are:
Best Spots for Cocktails 🍸
Farmers Markets 🥕
During the summer months, there are a few great farmers markets to visit on the following days:
- Tuesdays from 8am-1pm in the American Legion parking lot
- Wednesday from 3-7pm in Meyers
- Fridays from 3-8pm on Ski Run Blvd.
Best Grocery Stores 🛒
South Lake Tahoe features a variety of grocery stores including Whole Foods, Raley’s, Smart & Final and Grassroots (local health store). If you are buying alcohol, BevMo is the place to go, especially to avoid the long lines at the grocery story. Need to really stock up? Carson City, Nevada (20 mile drive from South Lake Tahoe) features a Costco.
Best spots for local shopping 🛍️
South Lake Tahoe offers a variety of shopping experiences, from charming local boutiques to larger shopping centers. Here are some of the best places to go shopping and explore local stores in South Lake Tahoe:
- The Crossing at Tahoe Valley – this shopping center offers a variety of stores, eateries, and services in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and support local businesses.
- Ski Run Marina Village – this picturesque marina village features a mix of retail shops, restaurants, and water activities. It’s a great place to shop and enjoy the scenic lake views.
- The Village Center – located near Heavenly Village, this shopping center offers a variety of stores and dining options. It’s a convenient spot to shop for essentials and find unique items.
- The Shops at Heavenly Village – a collection of boutique stores offering clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
- The Shops at Ski Run – this quaint shopping area features a selection of local businesses and eateries. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and enjoy a leisurely shopping experience.
- South Lake Tahoe Flea Market – open seasonally, this outdoor flea market offers a variety of vendors selling antiques, collectibles, handmade crafts, and more. It’s a treasure trove for those who enjoy hunting for unique finds.
South Lake Tahoe is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and natural beauty. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking for a tranquil long weekend escape, South Lake Tahoe has something to offer year-round. Enjoy your visit to one of my favorite regions in the world!
